Want to check out some fantastic New York City light displays without the holiday hordes? Follow this 7 part series of seasonal itineraries for outstanding alternatives to Rockefeller Center.

WINTER GARDEN AT BROOKFIELD PLACE

Brookfield Place is a large, high-end shopping mall housing both the Hudson Eats food court and French food emporium, Le District. Cut off from the rest of Manhattan by the West Side Highway, this sleek space in Battery Park can be a bit of a hike to get to, but once you're there, you'll have plenty to do.

First, grab a bite and a beer from one of several vendors at Hudson Eats, or shop for a spread at Le District. Your next decision is where to sit. You can bring your food to the tables on the terrace overlooking the atrium or find a bench on the ground floor. Both options will afford you a great view of the Luminaries light installation, a canopy of 650 hanging LED lanterns that change color when a "wish" is made by holding one of several cubes ("wishing stations") located on the atrium floor.

After dinner, do some holiday shopping or head outside for ice skating on the waterfront.

*view of luminaries from the second floor terrace just outside hudson eats*

Total Cost: Will vary depending upon where you eat, but $20 will get you a solid supper and drink at most vendors. Tax and tip included.

Best Nights to Go: Brookfield Place never feels too crowded and can be enjoyed any night of the week.

Nearby: Regal Cinemas Battery Park - Probably the best movie theater in the city to catch a flick without the crowds. After the movie, head around the corner to Danny Meyer's North End Grill for some fantastic dessert and a stellar scotch collection.

Check out other installments of this holiday series here.

Brookfield Place is also featured in another Dayfarer itinerary.